A survey of resources is provided for improving youth programs conducted by religious organizations. After a brief introductory chapter establishing the focus of the document, the second chapter offers an overview of adolescent physical, intellectual, moral, social, emotional, and religious development. In addition, the attitudes of young adolescents towards religion are discussed. Special attention is given to research findings related to adolescent spiritual concerns, attitudes toward religious practice, types of religious experience, growth of religious identity, perceptions of God, prayer and religious meaning, and the development of faith, as well as social and emotional needs of youths. Subsequent discussion focuses briefly on approaches to ministry among young adolescents. The concluding chapter discusses eight characteristics of exemplary religious programs for young adolescents and describes five current programs which are considered particularly responsive to the developmental needs of young adolescents and which offer creative and appropriate programming in the out-of-school hours. An annotated list is included of resource books, research studies, periodicals, and organizations; some resources are also mentioned which focus on cults, illness and hospitalization, juvenile justice, and substance abuse. (RH)

Center for Early Adolescence, School of Public Health, Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina, Suite 223, Carr Mill Mall, Carrboro, NC 27510 ($4.00 plus $1.00 postage and handling).